ICE Detainee passes away at Boston hospital.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
News Releases
October 20, 2009

ICE Detainee passes away at Boston hospital.

BOSTON – On Oct. 19, Pedro Juan Tavarez, a 49-year-old national of the Dominican Republic being held on immigration violations, passed away at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Mass.

On October 16, The Suffolk County House of Correction, where he was detained by ICE, transported Tavarez to the hospital after medical staff suggested possible pneumonia. The hospital diagnosed him with heart and respiratory conditions for which he was being treated.

Tavarez’s family was at the hospital with him when he passed away and was able to consult with medical staff on decisions concerning his medical treatment. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) notified the Consulate General of the Dominican Republic of Tavarez’s passing. Additionally, the appropriate state health authorities have been notified. The medical examiner’s office has not determined an official cause of death and will determine if an autopsy is necessary.

–ICE—

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was established in March 2003 as the largest investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security. ICE is comprised of five integrated divisions that form a 21st century law enforcement agency with broad responsibilities for a number of key homeland security priorities.